Authors' objectives:

To summarise the available evidence on the use of surgical robots.

Authors' recommendations: Several surgical robot systems are in clinical trials in the UK or Europe whilst others including EndoAssist, RoboDoc and AESOP are in the early stages of diffusion. However the number of robotic systems remains low and many are being used for research (even if approved). It is difficult to assess the general usefulness of most of these systems at this time. However the intern replacement systems (AESOP, EndoAssist) may be more likely to diffuse because of their potential to reduce operating theatre staff. The benefits and risks of using these systems in the NHS will need careful evaluation. Other systems such as the telesurgical systems, orthopaedic positioning and bone cutting systems will not reduce staff requirements and may lead to increased patient pre-operative planning visits. However improved accuracy, achievement of the planned surgery and the need for fewer revisions are claimed. Again the overall benefits and risks associated with each systems will need assessment at the optimum time.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2000

URL for published report: http://www.hsric.nihr.ac.uk/search

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: NIHR Horizon Scanning Centre

Contact Address: The NIHR Horizon Scanning Centre, Department of Public Health, Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, School of Health and Population Sciences, University of Birmingham, 90 Vincent Drive, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2SP. United Kingdom. Tel: +44 121 414 7831, Fax: +44 121 2269

Contact Name: c.packer@bham.ac.uk

Contact Email: c.packer@bham.ac.uk

Copyright: National Horizon Scanning Centre